The communique as sighted by GMTNewsng
Enugu, Sept. 17, 2025 – The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Enugu State Branch, has suspended its indefinite strike after reaching a landmark agreement with the Enugu State Government (ENSG) on welfare and financial autonomy for judiciary workers.
The strike, which began on Friday, Sept. 12, had disrupted court activities across the state. However, following days of extensive negotiations between JUSUN leaders and government officials, both parties announced a resolution that paves the way for improved staff welfare and strengthened institutional reforms.
In a communiqué jointly signed by Comrade Sampson Ifedimma, Chairman of JUSUN Enugu, and Comrade Jonas Onyia, Secretary, the union confirmed that the strike has been called off with immediate effect.
“In light of the resolutions reached, the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, Enugu State Branch, hereby suspends the industrial action with immediate effect and directs all judiciary staff across Enugu State to resume and diligently discharge their official duties forthwith,” the statement read.
Among the key agreements is the commencement of payment of outstanding salary arrears within one month, subject to verification by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the state verification team.
The Enugu State Government also announced the formal constitution of the State Account Allocation Committee (SAAC) as a framework for the practical implementation of judicial financial autonomy in line with Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution.
Furthermore, a Technical Committee on Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUSS) Implementation has been inaugurated to develop modalities for rolling out the enhanced salary structure for judiciary staff.
Mr. Ifedimma, speaking on behalf of the union, commended the government’s openness to dialogue and reaffirmed JUSUN’s commitment to a harmonious working relationship.
“This agreement shows that constructive engagement can resolve disputes. Our members are ready to return to work in the spirit of partnership,” he said.
Government representatives also hailed the outcome as a demonstration of the state’s commitment to upholding judicial independence while prioritizing staff welfare. According to a senior official, the resolutions mark “a major step forward in consolidating labour harmony and ensuring efficient service delivery in the justice sector.”
With the strike officially suspended, judiciary workers are expected back to their posts, signaling the resumption of court sittings, hearings, and other judicial activities across Enugu State. Analysts say the breakthrough reinforces the government’s “Tomorrow is Here” agenda by Governor Peter Mbah, which emphasizes inclusivity, prompt action, and institutional reforms.
Labour experts believe the Enugu model could serve as a reference point for other states grappling with JUSUN demands. By balancing constitutional provisions with proactive dialogue, Enugu has demonstrated that sustainable labour peace is achievable through negotiation rather than confrontation, setting a positive precedent for government–labour relations nationwide. GMTNewsng
